File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Florida

Although there is no complete statewide ban on asbestos in Florida, strict regulations have been in place since 1978, following federal restrictions on its use. However, asbestos was widely used throughout the state for decades, in the construction of homes, schools, and government buildings.

However, cities that housed industries with strong ties to asbestos still show an increased rate of mesothelioma. Areas with large numbers of retirees, such as Palm Beach County, often also have high rates of asbestos-related illnesses. From 1999 to 2017, Palm Beach County averaged 81 asbestos-related deaths per year. 

Most impacted cities in Florida:

• Jacksonville
• Miami
• Orlando
• Pensacola
• Tampa

Many people diagnosed with mesothelioma can trace their asbestos exposure back to their job, or to the job of a close family member or spouse. Although asbestos exposure in the home is possible, repeated or long-term occupational exposure is considered the highest risk to long-term health.

People who worked in jobs or at locations with high asbestos concentrations, especially if ventilation was poor or asbestos was disturbed or damaged regularly, face significant risks of asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma. 

The list below is not exhaustive and is intended only to provide typical examples of high-risk professions. If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, our legal partners can help you go over your work history to identify jobs or worksites where asbestos was common or known to be present.

High-risk occupations:

• Chemical engineers
• Construction workers
• Electricians
• Factory workers
• HVAC technicians
• Laggers
• Power Plant workers
• Shipyard workers
• Sugar mill workers
• U.S. military veterans
• Utility workers

Asbestos was a widely used industrial additive throughout the 20th century, with peak popularity spanning from 1930 to 1980. Its durability and resistance to heat, fire, and chemical corrosion led many companies to deliberately ignore the dangers of asbestos to employees’ and consumers’ health. 

To this day, asbestos products remain in place in many older buildings. To combat the risks posed by legacy asbestos, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented the Florida DEP Asbestos Removal Program in 1982, creating safety standards around renovation, demolition, and disposal. 

If you’re not sure which products you encountered, asbestos law firms like Meirowitz & Wasserberg have product binders and databases to help you remember the details of your exposure. 

Common asbestos-containing products in Florida:

• Automobile/industrial brakes
• Boilers
• Engines (gaskets and seals)
• Ceiling panels
• Cement pipes and panels
• Insulation
• Fireproofing sprays
• Floor tiles
• Roofing shingles
• Textiles (fireproof clothing, blankets, pads, and mats)
• Textured wall coatings

Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may qualify for multiple forms of compensation. Our trained patient advocates help mesothelioma victims and their families determine their eligibility and identify all available compensation options. 

Working with professional advocates is the best way to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are due, allowing you to cover treatment costs and living expenses and to create future stability for yourself and your family. We’ve helped clients secure over $1.5 billion in compensation. Get started on your free case evaluation today.